Ozone basics
What is ozone?
Ozone is a molecule made of three oxygen atoms (O3). Because it is unstable, treatment systems generate it at the point of use.
How does ozone work?
Ozone reacts through oxidation. With the correct dose and contact conditions it can support disinfection, colour reduction and odour control in suitable processes.
Why must ozone be generated on site?
Ozone decomposes and cannot normally be stored or transported like a stable treatment chemical. It is produced where it will be applied.
Does ozone leave a chemical residual?
Ozone trends back toward oxygen after reaction and decomposition. Treatment by-products still depend on the substances present in the water or air.
Safety and operation
Is ozone harmful?
Elevated ozone concentrations are harmful when inhaled. Systems require containment, ventilation, destruct equipment, monitoring, interlocks and suitable operating procedures.
Can ozone be used in occupied rooms?
Do not expose occupants to unsafe ozone concentrations. Air-treatment equipment must be applied under a professionally defined protocol that follows applicable exposure limits.
What maintenance is required?
Maintenance varies by system and may include feed-gas filters, cooling, dielectric inspection, tubing, injectors, sensors and calibration. Follow the supplied maintenance schedule.
How is ozone concentration monitored?
Gas analyzers, ambient monitors and dissolved-ozone sensors are selected according to the process, measurement range and required control function.
Water treatment and system selection
How is an ozone generator sized?
Sizing is based on flow, ozone demand, target dose, transfer efficiency, contact time and operating conditions—not flow alone.
Is ozone a direct replacement for chlorine?
Not automatically. Ozone and chlorine have different oxidation and residual behaviour. The complete treatment and distribution requirements determine the correct approach.
What information is needed for a recommendation?
Provide the application, flow rate, operating hours, water or air analysis, current treatment process, target outcome, available utilities and installation constraints.
Is pilot testing required?
Pilot testing may be recommended for complex wastewater, unusual contaminants or processes where ozone demand and by-product formation cannot be predicted reliably from available data.